Basic Details
Word: Repellent
Part of Speech: Noun / Adjective
Meaning: A substance used to drive away insects or pests; in adjective form, it describes something that repels or is unwanted.
Synonyms: Deterrent, prohibitive, warding off
Antonyms: Attractant, lure
Idioms and Phrases
- Like a moth to a flame: Refers to being drawn to something even if it may be harmful. Example: "He was like a moth to a flame, always going back to activities that were repellent to his health."
- Turn up the heat: To increase pressure or intensity, which may cause someone to feel repellent towards a situation. Example: "The way the teacher turned up the heat during the exam made the students feel repellent to studying late."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The gardener used a natural insect repellent to protect the plants from harmful bugs.
Example 2: Some fabrics are treated with a water-repellent coating to keep them dry in the rain.
Example 3: The repellent smell in the kitchen was caused by food that had been left out for too long.
Fun Fact
The word "repellent" comes from the Latin word "repellere," meaning "to drive back." It is commonly used for products designed to keep insects away, making outdoor activities more enjoyable.
Famous Quote
"What you resist, persists." - Carl Jung. This highlights that sometimes trying to repel or avoid things can make you focus on them even more.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "repellent" mean?
a) Something that attracts insects
b) A substance that drives away pests
c) A kind of food
d) A type of flower
Answer: b) A substance that drives away pests
2. Which of these is a synonym of "repellent"?
a) Attractant
b) Deterrent
c) Delightful
d) Alluring
Answer: b) Deterrent
3. Which sentence uses "repellent" correctly?
a) The dog was repellent to his owner.
b) The science project involved making a homemade insect repellent.
c) She loves a repellent smell.
d) He felt repellent after a good shower.
Answer: b) The science project involved making a homemade insect repellent.
4. Which idiom indicates being drawn to something harmful?
a) Like a moth to a flame
b) Turn up the heat
c) Break the ice
d) Hit the nail on the head
Answer: a) Like a moth to a flame
5. What is the opposite of "repellent"?
a) N/A
b) Tornado
c) Attractant
d) Desert
Answer: c) Attractant
